Condensed milk is cow's milk from which water has been removed and to which sugar has been added, yielding a very thick, sweet product that can last on the shelf for years. Also known as sweetened condensed milk, the two terms have become synonymous; though there have been unsweetened condensed milk products, today these are uncommon. Condensed milk is used in numerous dessert dishes in the United States and other countries.

A mixture of whole milk and sugar, 40 to 45 percent of which is sugar. This mixture is heated until about 60 percent of the water evaporates. The resulting condensed mixture is extremely sticky and sweet. Unsweetened condensed milk is referred to as Evaporated Milk. Store unopened sweetened condensed milk at room temperature for up to 6 months. Once opened, transfer the unused milk to an airtight container, refrigerate and use within 5 days. Sweetened condensed milk is used in baked goods and desserts such as candies, puddings, pies, etc.

A related product is evaporated milk, which has undergone a more complex process and which is not sweetened.